The Synergy of VR Immersion and AI Adaptivity in FLT (Based on Author's Innovative VR Simulators)

The article addresses a critical gap in foreign language teaching (FLT) by transitioning from a historical analysis of virtual environments (text-based MUD/MOO of the 1970s-2000s) to the empirical evaluation of modern AI-powered VR simulations. We present three original VR simulators developed by the authors-VR Tour in Ancient China (2023), Global Negotiation Quest (2024), and From Motivation to SelfRealization (2025)-specifically designed to enhance interdisciplinary competencies and FLT methodology. A study involving 450 students and postgraduates at RUDN University evaluated the simulators' efficacy across five core criteria: intercultural communication, digital literacy, decision-making, engagement, and realism/immersion, measured via a 5-point Likert scale. The results demonstrate a significant increase in student interactivity and engagement, directly attributable to the integration of adaptive AI (NLP for dialogue generation, Azure Neural TTS for pronunciation correction) within immersive scenarios. Beyond confirming VR's transformative potential in language education, our study provides a validated framework and practical tools for educators, offering clear pedagogical strategies for implementing VR to achieve specific CEFR-aligned learning outcomes. © 2025 IEEE.